PTSD Therapists Providing Counseling for Trauma in & Around Medford, NJ
Most people will experience some kind of trauma in their lifetime, whether from a car accident, abuse or neglect, the sudden death of a loved one, a violent criminal act, exposure to the violence of war, or a natural disaster. While many people can recover from trauma over time with nothing more than the love and support of family and friends, not everyone has the resilience to bounce back with such ease. Some may discover that they are left with lasting trauma, which can cause them to live with deep emotional pain, fear, confusion, or enduring stress far after the event has passed.
This response is known as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD. In these circumstances, the support, guidance, and assistance of an experienced PTSD therapist is fundamental to begin the healing process through trauma therapy. Counseling for trauma is one of the many services we offer at Peaceful Practices Counseling in Medford, New Jersey. If you or a loved one is a New Jersey resident who is experiencing PTSD symptoms, our team can help.
Symptoms of PTSD
Symptoms of PTSD may vary from individual to individual. According to the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, there are four types of symptoms that may present themselves:
Avoidance Symptoms
- Avoiding specific locations, sights, situations, and sounds that serve as reminders of the event
- Anxiety, depression, numbness, or guilt
Re-experiencing Symptoms
- Intrusive thoughts, nightmares, or flashbacks
Hyperarousal Symptoms
- Anger, irritability, and hypervigilance
- Aggressive, reckless behavior, including self-harm
- Sleep disturbances
Negative Mood and Cognition Symptoms
- Loss of interest in activities that were once considered enjoyable
- Difficulty remembering details of the distressing event
- Change in habits or behavior since the trauma
The Benefits of Trauma Therapy
Research has proven that psychotherapy is the most effective form of treatment for PTSD. Most commonly, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) are used in treating trauma. These methods can reduce the emotional impact of traumatic memories and help a patient identify useful coping skills to live a full and rewarding life despite their trauma.
Help Is Here
Symptoms of PTSD often worsen with time, so if you or someone you know has experienced a debilitating trauma, it’s important to seek professional guidance promptly. At Peaceful Practices in Medford, NJ, we have several highly trained mental health professionals who are familiar with cognitive behavioral therapy and EMDR and can get you on the road to recovery. Contact our team today to schedule a free consultation where you’ll have the chance to discuss what counseling for trauma entails as well as your personal needs and goals. We offer in-person and telehealth appointments.